In an increasingly interconnected global economy, trade flows between nations play a vital role in economic growth and development. Among these, India–Africa trade has emerged as a major force reshaping market dynamics on both continents. As of 2024–25, India is one of Africa’s top trading partners, ranking just behind China and the European Union in the region’s import landscape.
Africa’s imports from India totaled tens of billions of dollars in recent years, reflecting expanding demand for Indian goods across a range of sectors including petroleum products, pharmaceuticals, vehicles, machinery, and more. Countries like South Africa, Nigeria, Tanzania, Egypt, and Kenya have historically accounted for large shares of Indian exports due to robust commercial ties and growing consumer markets.
Top African Countries Importing from India – Overview
| Country | Key Indian Imports |
|---|---|
| South Africa | Petroleum products, vehicles, pharmaceuticals, machinery |
| Nigeria | Petroleum products, pharmaceuticals, food products |
| Tanzania | Machinery, electrical equipment, industrial goods |
| Egypt | Textiles, vehicles, pharmaceuticals, machinery |
| Kenya | Pharmaceuticals, agricultural machinery, plastics |
| Ghana | Vehicles, pharma, electrical equipment |
| Algeria | Machinery, chemicals, vehicles |
| Morocco | Textiles, equipment, processed goods |
| Ethiopia | Pharmaceuticals, machinery, food items |
| Senegal | Vehicles, pharma, plastics |
India Export Destinations in Africa
Import patterns also reflect Africa’s evolving economic needs urbanization, industrial development, and rising demand for quality pharmaceuticals, manufactured goods, and energy inputs are all driving sustained demand for Indian exports. Moreover, Indian products are often desirable for their cost competitiveness, reliability, and variety, making them well-suited to African market needs.
As strategic economic partnerships deepen and both regions pursue initiatives to diversify trade, the list of top African countries importing from India in 2026 is expected to align closely with historical patterns while highlighting new opportunities.
In this article, we break down which African countries import the most from India, the key products driving trade, and why these commercial links are significant for the future of South–South cooperation.
South Africa
According to official trade data, South Africa imported approximately $7.32 billion worth of goods from India in 2024, with top categories including mineral fuels and oils, vehicles and automotive parts, pharmaceuticals, machinery, and several other manufactured goods.
South Africa’s demand for vehicles and pharmaceutical products in particular reflects both consumer preferences and domestic market needs. The country’s established infrastructure and relatively high purchasing power compared with other African nations help sustain its position as a leading importer.
In 2026, South Africa’s imports from India are expected to remain strong due to infrastructure upgrades, energy demand, and continued reliance on cost-efficient Indian industrial goods.
An industry trade expert notes, “South Africa’s diversified economy and industrial base make it a natural partner for Indian exporters seeking to expand in Africa.”
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Nigeria
Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country, is another major importer of Indian products. Its large population and growing middle class drive demand for a range of goods from India, including petroleum products, pharmaceuticals, food products, and consumer goods. In recent years, Nigeria’s import needs have aligned with expanding sectors such as energy, manufacturing, and retail.
Trade flows are facilitated through ports such as Lagos (Apapa and Tin Can Island), though congestion and currency volatility remain structural challenges. Still, Nigeria’s long-term demographics and economic diversification plans suggest continued growth in Indian imports through 2026, particularly in healthcare, energy, and consumer staples.
A Nigerian trade official explains, “India’s exports help bridge critical gaps in our domestic supply, especially in healthcare and industrial inputs.”
Tanzania
Tanzania represents a key East African market for Indian machinery, industrial tools, and electrical equipment. These products support infrastructure development, manufacturing, and construction sectors that are crucial to Tanzania’s economic growth.
Trade flows are facilitated through the Port of Dar es Salaam, which also serves landlocked neighbors like Zambia and Malawi. Indian suppliers are favored due to competitive pricing and adaptability to local technical standards.
As Tanzania continues to attract foreign investment and expand manufacturing capacity, imports from India are projected to grow steadily through 2026, especially in capital goods and healthcare supplies.
An economist focusing on Africa trade observed, “Tanzania’s demand for industrial goods reflects its broader development strategy.”
Egypt
Egyptian imports from India include textiles, vehicles, pharmaceuticals, and machinery, among others. Textiles are a major component, as Indian cotton yarn and fabrics feed Egypt’s domestic garment manufacturing sector. Pharmaceuticals from India supply both public and private healthcare systems, particularly in generic medicines and APIs.
India also exports automobiles, two-wheelers, and spare parts, which are increasingly popular due to price competitiveness. Trade is also supported by bilateral agreements and growing investment ties between Indian and Egyptian firms.
In 2026, Egypt’s imports from India are expected to grow steadily as industrial expansion, population growth, and regional re-export activity increase demand for Indian manufactured goods. Cairo’s diverse economy supports imports for both consumer and industrial sectors.
According to trade analysts, “Egypt’s large consumer base and industrial sector make it a key market for Indian exporters.”
Kenya
Kenya’s economy is another important partner for Indian exports. The East African nation imports pharmaceutical products, agricultural machinery, plastics, and electrical equipment from India. Kenya’s expanding healthcare, agriculture, and manufacturing sectors continue to drive demand for Indian exports.
Kenya’s port of Mombasa is a critical logistics node, allowing Indian exports to reach not only Kenya but also Uganda, Rwanda, South Sudan, and parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo. This amplifies Kenya’s importance beyond its domestic demand.
By 2026, Kenya’s imports from India are expected to rise due to healthcare expansion, infrastructure investment, and continued regional trade integration within East Africa.
A Kenyan business official notes, “Indian products are popular due to their affordability and suitability for local market needs.”
Additional African Countries Importing from India
| Ghana | Ghana imports Indian vehicles, pharmaceuticals, and electrical equipment |
| Algeria and Morocco | import machinery, chemicals, and manufactured goods |
| Ethiopia | Ethiopia imports pharmaceuticals, machinery, and food-related products |
| Senegal | imports vehicles, pharmaceuticals, and plastics |
An Indian trade official highlighted, “Africa remains a key partner in India’s global trade strategy and economic diplomacy.”
Why India–Africa Trade Continues to Grow?
India–Africa trade has expanded dramatically over the past two decades, fueled by economic cooperation, diplomatic engagement, and shared development goals. From about US$68.5 billion in bilateral trade in the early 2010s to an increasing figure today, both regions are deeply linked through commercial ties. The diversification of Indian exports from energy products to pharmaceuticals and vehicles has made Indian goods valuable across diverse African markets.
Economic factors such as cost competitiveness, product quality, and improved logistics have helped Indian exporters gain ground in Africa. Meanwhile, African markets benefit from affordable and varied products that support growth in health, infrastructure, transportation, and everyday consumption.
FAQs
Which African country imports the most from India?
South Africa is one of the largest importers of Indian goods.
What are the main Indian products imported by African countries?
Major imports include pharmaceuticals, vehicles, machinery, and petroleum products.
Why are Indian goods popular in Africa?
They are affordable, reliable, and suited to local markets.
Is trade between India and Africa increasing?
Yes, bilateral trade has grown significantly over the past decade.
Do African countries import agricultural products from India?
Yes, products like rice and food items are part of the trade mix.